10 Years, Thousands of Acres: IL Corn’s Cover Crop Program

Tara Desmond
July 9, 2025

More Acres, Less Cost: How IL Corn is Helping Farmers Invest in Sustainability

IL Corn is committed to promoting sustainable farming practices across Illinois. In partnership with seed suppliers, the organization launched the Cover Crop Coupon Program to make cover crop seed more affordable and accessible for farmers.

 

Now celebrating its 10th anniversary, the program has helped thousands of Illinois farmers try cover crops for the first time, expand their conservation acres, and invest in long-term soil health. What started as a small effort has grown into a decade-strong tradition of supporting smarter, more sustainable farming.

clint holding sign

“With the IL Corn cover crop coupon knocking $200 off my seed bill, I was able to seed twice the acres I had planned. That saved me serious cash up front,” says Illinois farmer Clint Gorden.


As agriculture moves toward a more sustainable future, practices that support soil health and environmental stewardship are more important than ever. Through programs like IL Corn’s Cover Crop Coupon, farmers are empowered to adopt conservation practices that build healthier, more resilient farms for the next 10 years and beyond.

Not a member of the IL Corn Grower's Association? Join us to take advantage of this coupon and more!

Steve Koeller, Justin Moore, Shane Gray, Rep. Katie Stuart, Chad Dillenberger, and Dale Haudrich
By Lyndi Allen April 8, 2026
Representative Katie Stuart and Illinois farmers visited NCERC for a tour, to learn about its expansion plans, and interview Illinois farmers
thumbnail from farmdoc webinar
By Tara Desmond April 8, 2026
Researchers reveal most farmers operate from a single, highly consistent production plan and change it far less often than conservation advisors typically assume.
thumbnail of different videos
By Tara Desmond April 8, 2026
Catch up on IL Corn’s top stories and videos from Q1 2026, featuring farmers, yields, policy updates, and must-see moments from the field.
Shane and Marty
By Tara Desmond April 8, 2026
Farmer and past ICGA President Marty Marr shares insights on policy, conservation, and leadership and why staying involved matters in agriculture.
Randy thumbnail
By Tara Desmond April 2, 2026
An Illinois farmer shares lessons from 30 years of no-till, concerns about profitability, and opportunities for new corn demand in evolving markets.
Jared and his father
By Tara Desmond April 2, 2026
Illinois farmer Jared shares how 168 lbs of nitrogen produced 308 bu/acre and why cutting rates outperformed a high-input field by $200/acre.
Show More